Madrid in February | Weather, Museums, Attractions & More
The Spanish capital of Madrid is best known for its culture, art, and football. You can find some of the greatest examples of neoclassical art and architecture at the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Golden Triangle of Art - the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía National Art Centre, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. The home turfs of world-renowned football clubs, Athletico Madrid and Real Madrid are at Wanda Metropolitano and Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. Attractions like Faunia Madrid, Madrid Aquarium Zoo, Parque Warner, and Parque de Atracciones, make Madrid a great destination for family vacations too. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Madrid in February.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Madrid?
February is the last month of the low season in Madrid, making it one of the best times to visit the city. With fewer tourists, you can expect lesser crowds at attractions and good discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Why You Should Visit Madrid in February
- February is part of the low season in Madrid, which means visitors will have to wait for shorter whiles at tourist attractions.
- Fewer crowds also mean great discounts on hotel tariffs and airfare.
- With two football stadiums, museums, and championship matches to see, Madrid is a treat for football fans.
- Madrid’s biggest celebration, the Madrid Carnival takes place during this time of the year.
- It is the best time for shopaholics to visit Madrid as the biannual jewelry & watch fair takes place in February.
What to Look Out for in Madrid in February
- Buy your tickets for concerts and events in February, well in advance, as they could run out soon. Also, keep yourself updated on any cancellations or time changes.
- Make sure you book and confirm your timeslot for attractions beforehand, as most places only allow a fixed number of visitors at once. Also, ensure you visit the place at the allotted time.
- Be prepared to find some special events and rides at certain parks and attractions canceled due to rains or closed for winter.
- Winds are quite strong in Madrid in February, so pack and dress accordingly.
- Note that most taxi drivers in Madrid do not speak English.
Overview of Weather in Madrid in February
Although it is winter in Madrid in February, the temperatures tend to warm up a little, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities. The maximum temperature during the month is 14 ℃ while the lowest is 1 ℃. A few light showers are expected for about 5 - 7 days during the month. Evenings feel more chilly due to the strong winds.
- Average Temperature: High - 12 ℃ Low - 3.7 ℃
- Average Rainfall: 35 mm
- Average Wind Speeds: 8.2 miles per hour
- Average Daylight Hours: 10.7
Best Things to do in Madrid in February
1. Royal Palace of Madrid
Official Palace | Tourist Hotspot
The rooms and galleries of the Royal Palace of Madrid are open to the public, as the royal family resides elsewhere. Visitors are also welcome to the newly opened Ala de Bailén, the Exhibition of Classical Musical Instruments, and the Mirador de la Cornisa observation deck, with views of the beautiful Casa del Campo Park, Campo del Moro Gardens, and the Sabatini Gardens. Crowds at the Palace are much lesser in February.
February Timings: Monday to Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM | Sundays: 10 AM to 4 PM
from €12
2. Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
Historical Church| National Monument
This Roman Catholic church stands on the land offered to Saint Francis of Assisi. Today, it boasts a wealth of paintings by renowned artists like Francisco Jover, González Velázquez, Gregorio Ferro, and many more. The neoclassic structure is also noted for having Spain's largest dome on its roof and is a must-see attraction in Madrid in February.
February Timings:
Church: Mon to Sat - 8 AM to 10.30 AM
Sun: 10 AM to 1.30 PM & 6.30 PM to 8 PM
Museum: Tues to Sat - 10.30 AM to 12.30 PM & 4 PM to 6 PM
3. Liria Palace
Residential Palace | Tourist Hotspot
The residence of the Dukes of Alba, Liria Palace, is now a museum that displays one of the world's most distinguished private art collections. The 18th-century neo-classical palace has on display the works of artists like Goya, Velázquez, and Rubens. Admire the paintings and white marble sculptures at your own pace when you visit in the less crowded February.
February Timings: 10 am–12:30 pm | 4 – 7:15 pm
4. Wanda Metropolitano
Football Stadium | Sports Museum
The home stadium of the famous football club Atlético Madrid, Wanda Metropolitano, welcomes visitors to see the pitch, changing rooms, benches, press room, and more. Fans can see the journey of their favorite club through the trophies, pictures, and jerseys displayed at the Territorio Atleti Museum. Make sure you book your timeslot well in advance to tour the stadium in February.
February Timings:
Museum: Tue to Sun - 11 AM to 6 PM
Stadium: Tue to Thu - 12 PM to 6 PM; Fri: 12 PM to 5 PM
Weekends and public holidays: 11 AM to 7 PM
Closed on Mondays
5. Faunia
Wildlife Zoo | Family Attraction
Faunia Madrid is home to over 1000 species of plants and 4000 animals from 700 different species. They all live harmoniously across 22 different zones including 15 pseudo ecosystems like the Polar Regions and the African Rainforests. The zoo offers a wholesome wildlife experience through educative and fun activities like animal feeding sessions and live shows. Faunia is one of the less crowded family attractions in Madrid in February.
February Timings: Opens daily at 11 AM. Closing time varies. (TBA)
from €19.95
6. Parque Warner
Themed Park | Family Attraction
This Warner Brothers-themed park has five different zones of exciting rides and experiences to offer. The street performances, stunt shows, and character meet and greet sessions at The Hollywood Boulevard, the Cartoon Village, the Old West Territory, the DC Super Heroes World, and the Movie World Studios, are sure to entertain people of all ages. Visit in February to hop on these rides with minimum waiting times.
February Timings: Opens daily at 12 PM. Closing time varies. (TBA)
from €35.90
7. Prado Museum
Art Museum | UNESCO Site
The Prado Museum is one of the three art museums that form the Golden Triangle of Art. With over 20,000 authentic pieces on display, it is the richest collection of Spanish artworks in the world. Here you will find paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods including the works of El Greco, Goya, Rembrandt, and Caravaggio. February is one of the best months to visit the museum owing to fewer crowds.
February Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 8 PM | Sundays and public holidays: 10 AM to 7 PM
from €15
8. Madrid Aquarium & Zoo
Wildlife Zoo | Family Attraction
Visit the Madrid Aquarium Zoo to see over 6000 animals of more than 500 species including insects, mammals, amphibians, birds, fish, reptiles, and more. 20 hectares of pseudo habitats have been created to house these animals from around the world. The zoo offers education and entertainment through talks, live shows, and ‘Meet the Animals’ sessions, making it one of the most visited family attractions in Madrid in February.
February Timings: Monday-Friday: 11 AM to 5 PM | Saturday-Sunday: 11 AM to 6 PM
from €21.90
9. Parque De Atracciones
Amusement Park | Family Attraction
Parque de Atracciones is a fun-filled amusement park with four unique themed zones. The Machinery Zone is packed with adrenaline-pumping rides, while the Tranquility Zone offers a calming experience. The Nature Zone features adventure rides in a tropical forest setup, and Nickelodeon Land is filled with rides and activities inspired by their cartoons. You can skip the long waiting lines if visiting the park in February.
February Timings:
Mon to Thurs: 12 PM - 8 PM
Friday: 12 PM - 9 PM
Sat & Sun: 12 PM - 10 PM
from €27.90
10. Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
Art Museum | UNESCO Site
A collection of almost 1000 paintings from the 13th century to the 20th century are displayed at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the three museums that form the Golden Triangle of Art, which explains the history and evolution of European paintings. Admire great examples of Fauvism, Impressionism, German Expressionism, and more at the museum amidst the fewer crowds in February.
February Timings: 10 am–7 pm
from €13
11. Take a Day-Trip to Toledo
Day Trip | Cultural Hotspot
Experience Spanish art and architecture in Toledo on a day trip from Madrid. Visit the Church of Santo Tomé, the Jewish District, San Juan de Los Reyes Monastery, the Synagogue of Santa María La Blanca, the Church of the Saviour, and the Colegio de las Doncellas Nobles. You can also explore the city of Segovia on your half-day or full-day trips in February.
from €52
12. Reina Sofia Museum
Art Museum | UNESCO Site
The Golden Triangle of Art is incomplete without a visit to the Reina Sofia Arts Centre. This gallery of modern art features 20th-century Spanish masterpieces on Cubism, Surrealism, and Pointillism by celebrated artists like Picasso, Dali, Miro, and more. Observe these artworks up and close while there are fewer people at the museum in February.
February Timings: 10 am–9 pm
from €11.90Festivals in Madrid in February
Carnival Madrid 2023
Date: 17th February 2023 - 22nd February 2023
Venue: Various venues across Madrid (TBA)
The streets of Madrid turn into a carnival stage on the last full moon of winter. Carnival Madrid is a city-wide celebration of dance, music, color, and laughter. The activities of the annual Carnival begin with the Carnival Parade and the inaugural speech. This is followed by the Masquerade Ball, the Manteo del Pelele (tradition of tossing the puppet), the Murga (musical theatre show), and the Chirigota (Spanish choral folksong). The Carnival ends with the traditional Burial of the Sardine, followed by a public bonfire.
Know more
The Festival of Santa Águeda
Date: 5th February 2023
Venue: Mataelpino, Madrid, and most parts of Segovia
Santa Águeda is a festival celebrated by women in Madrid and Segovia in honor of the Sicilian Saint, Saint Agueda. On this day, women take over the streets with a parade of Zamarramalas dance and Charanga music, celebrating the spirit of womanhood. The event begins with the transfer of the Bastón de Mando (baton), followed by mass and the parade. Along with it, there is also a traditional tapas contest held to win the ‘La Cresta de Oro’ crown. The event ends with a cake party and some hot cocoa.
Know moreEvents in Madrid in February
Madridjoya Winter 2023
Date: 2nd February 2023 - 5th February 2023
Venue: IFEMA Madrid
Madridjoya is Madrid’s bi-annual jewelry, watches, and silverware shopping festival and trade fair hosted by IFEMA Madrid. The 2023 Winter edition in February will be the 69th edition of the event, expecting over 40000 visitors from 78 countries. The fair displays some of the most beautiful and expensive pieces of jewelry and watches, as well as offers great discounts on retail.
Know more
Classic Madrid - International Classical Vehicle Show
Date: 24th February 2023 - 26th February 2023
Venue: Recinto Ferial Casa de Campo, Av. de Portugal, Madrid
The Classic Madrid motor show is an annual hosted by the Casa de Campo exhibition center in Madrid in February. Thousands of visitors flock in every year to see the curated collections of vintage cars, classic motorcycles, spare parts, and accessories at the largest automotive event in Spain. Its 11th edition in 2023 will also see competitions, skill trials, rallies, presentations, and sports displays.
Know more
London Philharmonic Orchestra - B7 Live Concert
Date: 28th February 2023
Venue: National Music Auditorium of Madrid
The London Philharmonic Orchestra is scheduled to play live at the National Music Auditorium of Madrid in February. The 106-member orchestra, conducted by Edward Gardner, will be playing the Dvorak Symphony no. 7 and Elgar Variations Riddle. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance to attend this musical event in February.
Know moreKnow Before You Visit Madrid in February
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Madrid which is 1 hour ahead of GMT (GMT+01:00)
Currency: Euro | EUR | €
Country Code: +34
Emergency Numbers: Integrated Emergency System - 112, Ambulance - 061, Fire brigade - 080, National police - 091, Local police - 092
Travel Guide
What to Wear in Madrid in February
- Layers of heavy woolen clothing throughout the day
- Raincoat and rain boots on rainy days
- Thick jackets on windy days
- Optional: a pair of gloves or a scarf on chilly evenings
- Thick socks and comfortable footwear for the walks
What to Pack in Madrid in February
- An umbrella, a raincoat, and a pair of rain boots
- A pair of comfortable walking shoes
- Heavy woolen clothes and a pair of gloves
- Thick jackets, a few pairs of thick socks, and scarfs
- A 2-pin round tip C or F type travel adaptor
Getting Around Madrid in February
- By Bus: Madrid has a well-connected bus network that runs across the city from 6 AM to 11:30 PM. There are also night buses that run from 11:55 PM to 5:50 AM along 26 bus routes. Bus tickets are sold at metro stations and on the bus (single one-way ticket only).
- By Metro: Metro is the fastest way to get to any part of the city between 6 AM and 2 AM. You will need a multi-top-up card ticket to use the metro in Madrid. These are available at the station and through red machines and authorized retailers.
- By Train: Cercania trains in Madrid are only operational on weekdays between 5 AM and midnight. Tickets can be purchased directly at the station.
- By Cab: If you are traveling in Madrid at night or with a lot of luggage, then cabs are a more convenient option. You can hail any cab on the street with a green light on its roof sign, or pre-book one from the city’s many private taxi companies. Uber and Cabify are also available at your convenience.
Where to Stay in Madrid in February
Since February is part of the low season in Madrid, accommodation comes with great discounts, especially when booked early. Here are some of the best places to stay in Madrid in February.
What to eat in Madrid in February
Madrid brings together the best food from all over Spain. Spanish cuisine is all about meat, potatoes, mushrooms, and olive oil, with very few spices added. Here are some of the dishes you must try while in Madrid in February.
- Pollo en Pepitoria: Pepitoria chicken is the perfect dish for those who wish to taste the classic Moorish palette. Made using ancient ingredients like saffron, ground almonds, and hard-boiled egg yolk, this chicken stew has a caramelized flavor to it.
- Cordero Asado: A native of the Catalan region of Spain, this warming winter dish is a succulent roast lamb marinated with lemon, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and other herbs. The lamb is usually served with roasted potatoes and onions on the side.
- Huevos Rotos: Huevos Rotos, literally meaning ‘broken eggs’, is a traditional Spanish dish of freshly fried potatoes, sprinkled with sea salt, and topped with perfectly done over-easy eggs. The yolks are mostly broken with the crusty edge of a bread slice, at the table, just before eating.
Explore Madrid Through The Year
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Madrid in February
February is the last month of the low season in Madrid, making it one of the best times to visit the city. With fewer tourists, you can expect lesser crowds at attractions and good discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Some of the best things to do in Madrid in February include visiting landmarks like the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Golden Triangle of Art, and the football stadiums. You can also experience festivities like the Madrid Carnival and the Festival of Santa Águeda, and attend the Madridjoya jewelry shopping festival or the Classic Madrid motor show.
It is Madrid in Madrid in February with average temperatures between 3.7 ℃ and 12 ℃. The lowest temperature recorded this month is 1 ℃ and it could feel even more chilly due to the strong winds.
It is not hot in Madrid in February. The maximum temperature recorded during the month is 14 ℃.
Cold swimming is possible in Madrid in February, but be aware that the sea temperatures range from 12.5 ℃ to 16.2 ℃. You also have the option of swimming in indoor heated swimming pools.
The skies are partly cloudy in Madrid in February. The days are 10.7 hours long with about 5 hours of sunshine.
Since it is still winter in Madrid in February, it is recommended to wear heavy woolen clothes. Gloves, scarves, thick jackets, layers of sweaters, and thick socks may be required to keep warm. A raincoat and a pair of rain boots come in handy on rainy days.
It rains lightly for about 5 - 7 days in Madrid in February. The average rainfall for the month is 33 mm.
As February is part of the low season, it is one of the cheapest months to visit Madrid, when airlines and hotels offer great discounts. Moreover, public transport in Madrid is also comparatively cheaper.
Madrid is generally safe for tourists. To ensure your safety, the city has a well-organized Integrated Emergency System you can reach at 112.
The Royal Palace of Madrid, the Liria Palace, and the Golden Triangle of Art comprising the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Arts Center, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum are some of the best things to see in Madrid in February. Football enthusiasts can also go see the Wanda Metropolitano and the Santiago Bernabeu stadiums.
The Madridjoya jewelry and watchmaking expo, the Classic Madrid vintage motor show, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s B7 Live Concert are some of the major events in Madrid in February.
The average temperature in Madrid in February ranges from 3.7 ℃ to 12 ℃.
The city’s biggest festival, the Madrid Carnival, and the Festival of Santa Águeda are celebrated in Madrid in February.